“They’re Not Bad Kids”: NBA Legend Dennis Rodman Once Broke Down in Public Over the Inability to Bond with His Own Children

Published 09/29/2022, 11:00 AM EDT

The off-court persona Dennis Rodman carried had a fanbase of its own. The bad boy of the NBA freely expressed himself for who he was. An eccentric character, The Worm was one of a kind. Living ahead of his time, his forward personality resonated with the people years later. Moreover, he was pretty much magnet for the ladies. At the same time, he is also known for being a good father.

A rough childhood made it difficult for Dennis Rodman to easily connect to people. However, the same man gravitated towards his children. A father of three, his colorful lifestyle kept him away from their lives for a period of time. It was only years later that the five-time champion felt their absence. Notably, a deeply emotional Rodman took the stage of his Hall of Fame induction to reveal his fatherhood regrets.

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Years after the admission, The Worm spoke about a conversation with his ex-wife which brought tears to his eyes once again.

Dennis Rodman on connecting with his kids

Rodman sat down to discuss his ’30 for 30′ documentary with Jackie MacMullan. Among the topics came up his role as a father. The Chicago Bulls‘ defensive specialist spoke about the disconnect in the initial days. Rodman had problems finding a true connection with his kids so far. However, a single phone call from his ex-wife changed his outlook. She revealed how Rodman’s three children want him to be more involved in their lives. Being heavily impacted by the moment, the two-time Defensive Player of The Year managed to open up.

“I Was Afraid to Be Around Guys”: 5X NBA Champion Dennis Rodman Opened Up on His Struggles with Childhood Trauma

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He spoke about the kids never confessing wanting him in their life. Their talks revolved around their needs. Rodman said, “She said they don’t need anything, they want you to be in their lives.” Rodman continued, “They are not even bad kids. I’m just so used to hearing those things like okay can you give me this, can you give me that from everybody. And it’s hard for me to sit there and separate my kids from other people.”

Over the years, Dennis Rodman has become well versed in his role as a father. In 2018, the five-time champion stepped back from the party lifestyle to spend time with his kids. While it took time, Rodman continues to slowly make strides as a father. Moreover, the next generation of Rodman has already taken over the NBA Hall of Famer’s legacy. His daughter, Trinity Rodman became the youngest American soccer player to score at just 18.

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WATCH THIS STORY: 10 things Chicago Bulls legend Dennis Rodman can’t live without

The athleticism and athleticism of The Worm has passed on. Now, it is his turn to watch his blood shine in their lane. And Rodman has welcomed the transition.

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Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.

“They’re Not Bad Kids”: NBA Legend Dennis Rodman Once Broke Down in Public Over the Inability to Bond with His Own Children

Dennis Rodman on connecting with his kids

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